Take time to get quiet

There is a nice reading from Yogananda that says that we need to let go of always being excited.  Meaning, let go of the nervous energy and rushing around.  Take the time each day to be quiet and contemplate, meditate, or just get outside and take a walk without any distractions.  Unplug for just a few minutes each day.  It's a great gift to give yourself and it will allow you to be more in tune with your heart's desire. 

Lessons

Recently I lost my grandma.  She was a beautiful woman who graced with world with her presence for 101 years.  I admire her for so many things.  Her and my grandpa both lived to be 101 years old.  They inspired not only my family, but all who knew them or about them.  They were married for over 75 years and lived out the promise "till death do us part."  I admire them for sticking to their commitment.  I know they must have had challenges not just in life, but in their relationship, yet they stuck to their promise.  How many times do we give up on our promises to ourselves, to others?  It takes more strength and courage to work through the issues that give us excuses to so easily break our promises.  Whatever issue you walk away from when you break a promise or commitment, will only replay itself in your life until you have overcome that obstacle.  So have the courage to take on the challenge.  Stick to your promises to yourself, to others and to living life to the fullest.  Honor those who have walked the earth for years longer than you.  Their wisdom is beyond your years. 

Be Thankful

This is one of my favorite quotes.  It's a great way to see things with a different perspective.  The author is unknown.  Enjoy!

Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times, during those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes, they will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference.
It is easy to be thankful for the good things.  A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.

music to my ears

Listening to music is a great way to relax, have fun and let go of stress.  Which ever style of music you enjoy, take the time to relax and enjoy it, or blast it out and dance your ass off!  Maybe you enjoy singing your heart out.  What ever brings you joy.  Take the time to listen to music.  One of my favorite ways to "get out of myself" is to go see live music.  If you live in a great city, like Austin, there are plenty of opportunities to see live music.  Music is one thing you'll never outgrow.

  Music also makes exercise more enjoyable.  Pick out your favorite tunes and get down to it!  You'll be glad you did.

do yoga!

Yoga just makes you feel good.  It's great for maintaining flexibility, keeping your joints healthy, your body strong, your mind clear and keep you looking and feeling younger.  I have been practicing yoga since 1993.  I started with just a class every once in a while, but then got addicted to it and eventually began teaching it!  At first it can be a little intimidating, or uncomfortable to move your body in different ways, or put yourself in odd positions; but after a while you just don't feel as good if you don't do it.  Hence the addiction.  It's a healthy addiction though.  So do yoga........you'll be glad you did!

Stay strong

Did you know that after age 30 you start to lose muscle mass?  Losing muscle mass can contribute to additional weight gain and a host of other unhealthy conditions like diabetes.  According to a study done by Brenda Davy, a professor of nutrition at Virginia Tech, less muscle may raise the risk of diabetes because muscle is where the body sends most of its blood sugar (glucose) to be stored or burned.  Less muscle lowers your metabolic rate, meaning you burn fewer calories while resting.  Resistance training is a great way to increase or maintain your muscle mass.  More muscle mass increases the tissue that can use glucose and thus keep the pounds off.  Aerobic exercise and weight training together make a great combination to help keep your body healthy and strong.  So get out there and move!  Even in your daily activites try to get in a little more movement.  Take the stairs, park a little further from the entrance to stores, work, etc.  Get out and walk your dog, play with the kids, ride your bike.  Get to the gym at least 3 times per week to weight train and get in some cardio most days of the week.  You'll feel and look better! 

Skin care

One of the best ways to avoid aging skin is to wear sunscreen.  Use natural skin protection.  Skin by Ann Webb has some great products.  They have an organic skin care line and if you live in Austin, Texas you can visit their clinic and get all types of skin care from facials, to IPL and laser hair removal at a great price!  You can also find their products at Whole Foods Market.  Check it out!  http://www.skinorganicsaw.com/

Testing, testing

I wanted to share a great website where you can get general blood tests done at a fraction of the cost, without going to see a doctor.  I've used this many times to get basic levels on hormones, cholesterol, thyroid, Vitamin D levels, etc.  The site is:  http://www.healthcheckusa.com/.  You order the test, take the requistion to the lab and then get results mailed to you.  They analyze the results and note any areas where you might consider seeing your primary care physician for.  It's a great way to keep yourself on track and catch areas where you may need more support.  Check it out!

decisions, decisions

Today is Friday.  Another day to live healthy, happy and free.  A lot of our distress comes from our reactions to situations.  It really only takes a conscious effort to check our reactions to events or people to make better choices.  How many times have we reacted only to find ourselves feeling bad about how we managed a situation.  Yes, we learn from mistakes, but sometimes just giving a little more effort to break habits and patterns of reaction can send us on a different path.  If we reinforce those positive "actions" the old habits will soon become a thing of the past.  I read once that it only takes 21 days to break a habit.  Each time you say "no," whether it's to break a pattern of reacting to certain situations or people, giving up sodas, alcohol, drugs or any other self-destructive habit, each time you say "no" you become stronger.  Give yourself that gift.  It may be challenging at first, but each time you reinforce a positive decision, you'll feel better.  Those patterns that keep tripping you up will soon be a thing of the past. 

Daily inspiration

Today I read an interesting quote about perservance.  It's stated that there is always a way.  If you can't find it through the front door, then look through the back door.  Just making the effort of finding different doors, not necessarily opening all of them, going the extra mile, will help you discover the doors that open for you.  Perseverance and effort will pay off.  Never give up.  Having a commitment and perseverance to improve your health can be as simple as making one small change.  Keep opening the door to success!

food for thought - Bruce Lipton

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one of my favorite sites

This is a great website for information on health.  check it out!  http://www.mercola.com/

50 is only a number

Today I'm starting my first blog.  I am approaching my 50th birthday.  It doesn't seem like I've been walking on this earth for that many years.  But, my mom always told me "it's only a number," and I truly believe that.  Guess I got tired of hearing about surveys that tell you what you should and shouldn't be, wear, do, etc., etc. at certain ages.  I think my mom was right.  It's all in your attitude, how you take care of yourself and your outlook to life.  In my blog, I will begin sharing what has helped me stay fit, healthy and optimistic through many challenges.  Hope you will join me.